ST. CHARLES – By late February, a new coffee franchise is expected to open in downtown St. Charles.

The shop, Biggby Coffee, will open in the first floor of the building at 117 W. Main St. once renovations are complete, said Todd Madziarczyk, franchise owner from Sugar Grove.

He said the franchise started in 1995 in East Lansing, Mich., and now has 145 stores open in seven states. He said what he likes best about the company is its customer-centric approach.

“Biggby Coffee focuses on the customer,” Madziarczyk said. “[The atmosphere] is very welcoming. ... I liken it to Norm walking into Cheers.”

Madziarczyk, an accountant by trade, said he worked in St. Charles for more than a decade and liked the high-traffic area of the 100 block of West Main Street.

He said he was looking for a franchise that fit his outgoing personality and that felt friendly. He said Biggby Coffee was the right fit and that he loves being able to meet his customers.

“When I was finished training, I actually came to miss my regulars,” he said. “You get to know people who come in all the time. They really become your friends.”

Madziarczyk said Biggby Coffee’s decor consists of vibrant colors and bright lighting to create a fun, active atmosphere that feels like home. He said the company also tends to play music a little bit louder than other coffee places. He said the names of each coffee drink are simple and straightforward so customers won’t feel intimidated while ordering.

Outdoor seating will be available once construction is complete.

Madziarczyk said the building is “basically a raw space” that is still being renovated after a basement wall collapsed at that location in 2011. He said a construction permit has been approved and he hopes to start renovating immediately.

Although coffee is in its name, Madziarczyk said the store will offer an array of drinks without coffee as well. He said he’s not a coffee connoisseur, but he said he especially enjoys the shop’s signature brew, Biggby’s Best, which is a combination of several coffee bean varieties that create a smooth brew.

He said he expects to hire 15 to 20 employees once the shop is open. He said he looks forward to being able to help with charitable efforts.

“I’d really like to give back to the community that’s been so good to me,” he said.